International Journeys: New Tachograph and Driver Hours Rules from 21 April 2025
From 21 April 2025, all HGV and PSV operators conducting international journeys between the UK and EU — or any country covered by the AETR agreement — must comply with new mandatory tachograph and driver hours rules.
These changes include:
- The extension of AETR rules to PSV (passenger service vehicle) operations
- A requirement for 56 days of tachograph records to be available for international journeys (up from the current 28 days)
This is a major shift in international transport compliance, and all operators must be fully prepared ahead of time.
At Total Compliance, we help operators stay ahead of legal and regulatory changes. Below is a comprehensive overview of what’s changing, why it matters, and what actions you need to take to stay compliant and avoid costly enforcement penalties.
Key Legislative Changes
- AETR Rules Extended to PSV Operators
Previously, the AETR (European Agreement Concerning the Work of Crews of Vehicles Engaged in International Road Transport) applied largely to HGV operations. From 21 April, Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) operating internationally will also fall under the AETR rules.
This applies to:
- Coach and bus journeys crossing international borders
- All PSV operators entering EU or AETR signatory countries
AETR is a UN treaty that sets consistent rules on driving times, breaks, and rest periods for international drivers. It ensures harmonisation across countries and supports consistent enforcement standards.
- Tachograph Data Retention Period Increased to 56 Days
For drivers of goods vehicles on international journeys, the tachograph record-keeping requirement has been extended from 28 to 56 days. Drivers must now be able to produce:
- 56 days of digital tachograph records
- Manual entries where appropriate
- Records of rest periods and ferry/train crossing documentation
This change aligns UK practices with EU enforcement protocols, particularly for cross-border operations and roadside inspections.
Why These Changes Are Being Introduced
These updates are part of the UK’s strategy to maintain compatibility with international transport regulations following Brexit. Aligning with AETR ensures operators maintain market access, avoid delays at borders, and remain subject to consistent enforcement procedures.
AETR currently applies in over 50 countries, including non-EU nations such as Norway, Switzerland, and Turkey.
What Operators Need to Do Now
- Review and Update Your Internal Policies
All operators running international services must now ensure their policies reflect AETR rules, including:
- Driving time and break requirements
- Daily and weekly rest regulations
- Appropriate record keeping procedures
This applies equally to passenger transport and goods transport operators.
- Retrain Drivers and Transport Managers
It is essential to provide training for:
- Drivers operating under AETR for the first time
- Transport Managers who must oversee compliance and enforcement
- Admin teams who handle driver downloads and records
We recommend updating induction packs and conducting refresher training for current drivers operating internationally.
- Audit Tachograph Systems and Record Storage
Operators must ensure:
- Tachograph units are capable of storing and retrieving 56 days of data
- Remote download solutions are configured correctly
- Secure record keeping policies are in place
Digital storage systems should be reviewed for capacity and redundancy.
- Prepare for Increased Enforcement
Expect stricter inspections and requests for more comprehensive records at borders and roadside checks. Enforcement agencies, including the DVSA, have been granted new powers to enforce AETR rules.
Total Compliance Can Help
Total Compliance offers:
- Remote tachograph data management support
- Policy development for international operations
- Mock compliance audits
- Transport Manager CPC training and refresher courses
We are committed to helping your business remain legally compliant, operationally efficient, and professionally equipped to meet these new international transport standards.
Contact us today to discuss how we can support your business with tailored compliance solutions.